The new leader of the Scioto County Dog Shelter is sending a hopeful message to the community.
Scioto Hounds shared a greeting from the new Scioto County Dog Shelter Director and Dog Warden, who said he is stepping into the role with an open mind, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to making positive changes for the dogs, shelter employees, and the people of Scioto County.
The message comes at an important time for the shelter, which has faced public concern, rescue pressure, and questions about how the county cares for dogs in its custody.
The new director said he understands the job will not be easy, but believes the shelter has “tremendous potential for growth, improvement, and positive change.”
He said his goals include improving the lives of dogs at the shelter, strengthening relationships with the community, building partnerships with rescues and veterinarians, and creating a shelter the county can be proud of.
The new dog warden said dogs have always been an important part of his life and that every dog is different.
“Some need patience, some need structure, some need extra care, and all of them deserve to be treated with respect and compassion,” he said.
He also emphasized that the shelter cannot depend on one person alone.
He said it will take employees, volunteers, rescues, veterinarians, fosters, donors, county officials, and community members working together to make lasting improvements.
The message also appeared to reach out to shelter workers and volunteers, with the new director saying he wants to create an environment where people feel respected, valued, and appreciated.
“I don’t pretend to have all the answers,” he said, “but I promise to listen, learn, work hard, and give this position everything I have.”
The new director said he expects challenges and mistakes along the way, but said the work will not stop when something goes wrong.
“If something doesn’t work, I will learn from it, adjust, and continue working until we find a better solution,” he said.
The statement struck a hopeful tone after a tense period for the shelter and local dog advocates.
Scioto Hounds and other rescuers have worked to help place dogs, raise concerns, and push for better outcomes. The new director’s message suggests he wants to build bridges with people who genuinely want to help.
“This is more than just a job to me,” he said. “I see an opportunity to make a real difference — for the dogs, for the employees, and for our entire community.”
He ended by saying he looks forward to meeting and working with the people of Scioto County and building relationships with those who want to help create a “bigger, brighter future” for the shelter.
“Together, I truly believe we can make a difference,” he said.
